The expert panel undertaking the review of public libraries in Wales on behalf of the Minister for Culture and Sport have just issued a call for written evidence. Further details about the review and how to submit evidence is available online on the CyMAL division web pages.

The panel has invited responses to the following questions:

What services should public libraries provide in the future to meet the changing needs of the people of Wales?

What should be the roles and functions of the public library workforce in the future?

How can libraries in Wales work together in the future to offer an efficient and effective library service on a local, regional and national basis?

Do we require a new legislative framework and/or delivery model for public library services in Wales?

The panel will produce a report for the Minister later in the year. A full public consultation on the report and its recommendations will then follow. Terms of reference and how to respond are on the web pages. Deadline: 20 June 2014.

Note: “If you have contributed to the National Assembly of Wales’ Communities Equality and Local Government Committee inquiry into public libraries, and your response is available on the inquiry website, you do not need to resubmit it for this review.”

5 Responses to Call for evidence: Welsh public libraries review

Being on benefits I cannot afford the luxury of the internet. My daughter uses our local library to do her GCSE coursework and research.
Librarys are vital and important for all, as Its just more than books.
Its important that the younger generation understand the purpose of librarys and the importance of reading to help better their education

Libraries in Wales need to reinforce the link with learning and education as a way out of poverty. The push for improved literacy standards in schools can’t work without partnership with the library service. Enhance links with local schools use the library during exam periods for revision sessions relaxation and stress management courses for GCSE and A level students. Offer homework help, promote libraries as a community resource.

Many thanks for your comments, and I will pass them on to colleagues who are gathering evidence for the review. I hope you’ll be encouraged to know that all public libraries run baby bounce & rhyme times, many run homework help clubs and have good relationships with local schools in their areas. We are also working on a scheme piloting the automatic membership of year 4 pupils in six local authorities to help foster a love of reading for pleasure, which research shows is critical to later success of a child. But there’s always scope for more joint working and collaboration.